Starlink Shuts Down Satellite Internet Services in Uganda Following Regulatory Directive

Satellite internet provider Starlink  has disabled access to its global network in Uganda, effectively rendering all Starlink terminals in the country inactive as of 1 January 2026, following a directive from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC ) regarding unlicensed satellite service operations.

In a letter dated 2 January 2026, Starlink confirmed that it had activated a service restriction tool to prevent any satellite internet access within Uganda. The letter, signed by Ben MacWilliams, Director of Market Access at Space Exploration Technologies Corp., was addressed to the UCC’s Executive Director and issued in response to concerns over the illegal use of satellite internet services in the country.

Starlink clarified that it does not sell, market, or directly provide satellite internet services in Uganda, and that no Starlink terminals have been officially imported or distributed in the country. “To be clear, Starlink Uganda itself is not selling or marketing satellite internet services in Uganda because it is not yet licensed by the UCC,” the company stated.

According to Starlink, access to the service in Uganda prior to the shutdown was enabled through terminals that were purchased and activated in countries where Starlink is authorized, then later imported into Uganda without approval. The company emphasized that such use violated its terms of service and occurred without its involvement or authorization. “Starlink services in Uganda was without our approval or consent and in violation of our terms of service,” the letter noted.

Starlink further confirmed that following the enforcement action on 1 January 2026, there are now no active Starlink terminals operating in Uganda. “As a result of 01 January 2026, there are no Starlink terminals operating in Uganda,” the company said, reiterating that it has never imported or distributed terminals in Uganda.

The service suspension follows a 19 December 2025 directive from the Uganda Revenue Authority, which restricted the importation and customs clearance of Starlink equipment and related communication hardware. Under the directive, any Starlink devices entering the country now require clearance from the Chief of Defence Forces, effectively placing the technology under military oversight.

The timing of the shutdown, coming just weeks ahead of Uganda’s 15 January elections, has drawn attention to the regulation of satellite-based internet services, which operate independently of national fibre and mobile networks. Observers note that such services can influence information access during politically sensitive periods.

Despite the current restriction, Starlink signalled its willingness to engage with regulators to enable lawful operations in the future. “Starlink is committed to cooperating with the UCC’s regulatory requirements as we work to complete the licensing process in Uganda,” the company said.

For now, the immediate effect of the enforcement action is clear: Uganda is fully blocked from accessing Starlink’s satellite internet constellation, pending regulatory approval and licensing.